Medical professionals are supposed to be our closest health confidants. It is their job to listen to our symptoms and arrive at a correct diagnosis and treatment plan. But there are so many ways that a doctor can make a mistake when treating a patient. The doctor may have misdiagnosed, failed to diagnose a condition at all, suggested an unsuitable care plan, made a mistake during surgery, prescribed the wrong medication, among many others. Ultimately, if you feel that your doctor didn’t hear your expressed concerns or otherwise did not provide a certain standard of care, then now is the time to speak with our Simi Valley, CA medical malpractice lawyer. Our team at Goldberg Injury Lawyers understands the gravity of the situation. Your health and wellbeing may have been affected for the worse because of the mistake. Please let us review your case and see what can be done. We are here for you.

What To Do Right Now

If you believe that you have become the victim of medical malpractice, we recommend seeking medical attention immediately. You may want to receive care from another doctor at a different medical facility to ensure you get the proper treatment required. It is important for your wellbeing to get medical care. Ask for copies of the medical documentation, as this can be influential when taking legal action. By going to a second doctor you are also essentially getting a second opinion, which can confirm that malpractice has occurred. If the second doctor sees the situation in a new way, this can be a sign that the original doctor missed something when diagnosing or treating your condition. To win a medical malpractice lawsuit, you must have evidence that proves the first doctor caused you harm. Visiting another medical professional can help prove that negligence was a factor. When obtaining medical records for your condition, review them and make sure they are correct and complete. Share copies of the following documentation with our dedicated medical malpractice attorney during your consultation:

• Prescription medications
• Diagnosis
• Lab testing/results
• Medical history
• Exam notes
• Pictures of the injury/condition (if possible)

If you do not have medical records then our team can help you gather them along with other evidence. Once we do our own investigation, we can conclude whether taking legal action against the offending doctor and/or medical facility is the next step. You may be owed compensation for everything you have been through due to the doctor’s mistake or oversight.

Goldberg Injury Lawyers

It can be scary to realize that your doctor may have made a serious mistake when treating your condition. We visit doctors because we trust them to provide us with the care and attention we need to get better. When doctors stray from what is expected in the medical community, harm or fatality can happen to patients. If this is something you or a loved one is currently going through, please let our Simi Valley medical malpractice attorney help. Our team at Goldberg Injury Lawyers is ready to offer support during this difficult time.

Medical Malpractice After Being Prescribed The Wrong Medication

Our Simi Valley, CA medical malpractice lawyer knows that medication errors can have serious consequences, affecting health, well-being, and quality of life. When a patient is prescribed the wrong medication, it may be grounds for a medical malpractice claim, especially if the error leads to severe side effects or additional health problems. At Goldberg Injury Lawyers, we know how confusing and frustrating this experience can be, and we’re here to help those who have been affected by prescription mistakes understand their rights and options. We are devoted to fighting and winning.

Determining Liability In Medication Errors

One of the first steps in filing a medical malpractice claim related to a medication error is identifying who is responsible. In many cases, errors can happen at different stages of the prescription process. A doctor may prescribe the wrong medication due to a misdiagnosis or lack of information about a patient’s health. Pharmacists, too, can make mistakes, such as providing the wrong medication or dosage. In some situations, even hospital staff may be liable if they administer the incorrect drug during treatment.

Establishing who is at fault requires a careful review of the medical records and any documentation related to the prescription. By examining this information, we can identify where the error occurred and who may be responsible for the resulting harm. If a claim shows that the healthcare provider or pharmacist acted negligently in providing the wrong medication, there may be grounds to pursue compensation.

Proving Negligence And Causation

To proceed with a claim, it’s essential to demonstrate that the healthcare provider or pharmacist was negligent and that this negligence directly caused harm. In the case of a medication error, negligence may include failing to consider drug interactions, ignoring known allergies, or prescribing a medication without a thorough evaluation of the patient’s condition.

Our Simi Valley medical malpractice lawyer knows that once negligence is established, the next step is to show causation—that is, how the wrong prescription led to specific harm. This may involve documenting symptoms, side effects, or complications resulting from taking the incorrect medication. For example, a patient may experience an adverse reaction that leads to hospitalization, additional treatments, or ongoing health issues. By establishing a clear link between the error and the harm suffered, we strengthen the foundation for a malpractice claim.

Calculating Damages

When pursuing a medical malpractice claim for a medication error, it’s important to accurately calculate the damages suffered. Damages can include various costs and losses, such as medical expenses related to treating the side effects of the wrong medication. This might cover emergency care, hospital stays, follow-up visits, and any additional medications needed to counteract the initial error. Additionally, if the error caused a condition that requires ongoing treatment, future medical costs should be factored into the claim.

Lost wages are another element to consider, particularly if the side effects or complications prevented the patient from working. A medical error can result in time away from work or even a reduced capacity to work in the future, affecting current and potential earnings. Compensation can account for this financial impact, helping the patient recover lost income.

Contact Us For Guidance On Filing Your Claim

Filing a medical malpractice claim after a medication error can be a critical step toward recovering damages and addressing the consequences of the mistake. At Goldberg Injury Lawyers, we are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you need for your recovery. If you or a loved one has been affected by a medication error, reach out to us today for a consultation. Attorney Goldberg founded his practice in 2005. Our medical malpractice lawyer in Simi Valley is ready to assist you through each step of the process and help you work toward a resolution that supports your health and well-being.

Long-Term Disability From Medical Malpractice

Our Simi Valley, CA medical malpractice lawyer knows that medical malpractice can have devastating consequences, including long-term disabilities that significantly impact a person’s quality of life. When healthcare providers fail to deliver the expected standard of care, the results can be life-altering. At Goldberg Injury Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming these situations can be and how important it is to address the challenges they bring. We were rated the Top 100 in Southern California by Super Lawyers and are here to help you. Below are some of the key ways medical malpractice can lead to long-term disability.

• Physical Limitations from Surgical Errors. Surgical errors are a common cause of long-term disability resulting from medical malpractice. Mistakes during procedures, such as operating on the wrong site or damaging nerves, can lead to permanent physical impairments. Patients may experience chronic pain, reduced mobility, or loss of function in specific body parts, often requiring lifelong rehabilitation and accommodations.
• Cognitive Decline from Misdiagnosis. Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis can lead to irreversible conditions if treatment is not provided in time. For example, failing to diagnose a stroke, brain injury, or serious infection can cause long-term cognitive issues. Memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and other neurological impairments may prevent individuals from returning to their previous work or daily routines.
• Disabilities from Birth Injuries. Medical errors during childbirth can result in lifelong disabilities for both mothers and infants. For children, birth injuries like cerebral palsy or brachial plexus injuries may affect physical and mental development. For mothers, complications from negligent care during delivery can lead to chronic pain or conditions requiring ongoing medical attention.
• Loss of Independence from Medication Errors. Our medical malpractice lawyer in Simi Valley knows that medication errors, such as prescribing the wrong drug or incorrect dosage, can have severe and lasting effects. Organ damage, toxic reactions, or worsening of underlying conditions can result from these mistakes. Patients may find themselves reliant on caregivers or assistive devices, limiting their ability to live independently.
• Emotional and Psychological Trauma. Long-term disability is not only a physical issue but also an emotional one. The stress and frustration of adapting to a new way of life after medical malpractice can lead to depression, anxiety, or PTSD. These psychological effects often compound the challenges faced by individuals dealing with a physical disability.
• Financial Strain from Long-Term Care Needs. The financial impact of long-term disability is another significant consequence of medical malpractice. Many individuals require ongoing care, such as physical therapy, medical treatments, or home health assistance. These costs can quickly add up, especially if the individual is unable to work and earn income due to their disability.
• Legal Support for Long-Term Disability Claims. For those affected by medical malpractice, pursuing a legal claim may provide financial relief and accountability for the harm caused. Compensation from a successful claim can help cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses associated with long-term disability. Legal representation can make it easier to address these challenges effectively.

Contact Us To Discuss Your Case

If medical malpractice has led to long-term disability for you or a loved one, it’s essential to take action. At Goldberg Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping individuals understand their options and pursue the compensation they deserve. We have offices throughout California and aim to help as many people as we can while providing quality service. Contact our medical malpractice lawyer in Simi Valley today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you in moving forward.

Simi Valley Medical Malpractice Infographic

What To Do If You Can’t Work After Medical Malpractice

Our Simi Valley, CA medical malpractice lawyer knows that when medical malpractice leads to life-altering injuries, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. The inability to work not only impacts your income but can also create uncertainty about the future. It is understandable that you are wondering how to get compensation after medical malpractice, so give us a call. At Goldberg Injury Lawyers, we are here to help individuals understand their options after experiencing medical malpractice.

What Are My Options If I Can’t Work Due To Medical Malpractice?

If your ability to work has been compromised by medical malpractice, you may be eligible to recover damages through a legal claim. There are many reasons you might not be able to work following medical malpractice, including because you suffered a brain injury or other physical injury. Compensation could include lost wages, future income, and costs associated with medical care and rehabilitation. It’s important to gather detailed documentation of your financial losses and medical records that support your claim. Pursuing legal action can provide the financial support you need to focus on your recovery.

Can I Recover Damages For Lost Earning Capacity?

Yes, if medical malpractice has left you unable to perform your previous job or limited your ability to work in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for lost earning capacity. This type of claim accounts for the difference between your previous income and what you can reasonably earn now. Expert testimony, such as vocational assessments, often plays a role in establishing the long-term impact on your ability to earn.

How Does Medical Malpractice Affect Workers’ Compensation Claims?

As our medical malpractice lawyer in Simi Valley knows, medical malpractice and workers’ compensation are separate areas of law, but they can sometimes overlap. If your initial injury occurred at work and subsequent malpractice worsened your condition, you may be dealing with both systems. While workers’ compensation might cover some immediate costs, a medical malpractice claim could address broader issues like pain and suffering or additional losses not covered by workers’ compensation. We can help assess which options apply to your situation.

What If I Can’t Afford Legal Representation?

Cost concerns should not prevent you from seeking justice. Most medical malpractice attorneys work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if you receive a settlement or favorable verdict. This arrangement allows you to pursue your claim without upfront legal fees. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explain how this process works.

How Long Do I Have To File A Claim?

Each state has a statute of limitations that determines how long you have to file a medical malpractice claim. In most cases, the clock starts when the malpractice occurs or when it is discovered. It’s essential to act promptly because missing the deadline can mean losing the ability to seek compensation altogether. Typically, in California, you have three years from the date of the injury.

Medical Malpractice Glossary

Simi Valley, CA medical malpractice lawyer services often involve detailed medical and legal terminology. To help our clients feel more informed, we’ve provided definitions and context for key terms that often arise in these cases. If you’re dealing with a situation where you suspect a healthcare provider may have made a serious mistake, this glossary may help you better understand important aspects of your potential claim.

Surgical Error

A surgical error is a preventable mistake that occurs during a surgical procedure. These mistakes go beyond the accepted risks of surgery and may include operating on the wrong body part, performing the wrong procedure, or leaving surgical tools inside a patient. In Simi Valley medical malpractice cases, this type of error often results in permanent injury or long-term disability. When reviewing claims involving surgical error, we look at operative reports, pre- and post-surgical care notes, and any corrective surgeries required afterward.

These errors can disrupt a person’s life indefinitely, requiring ongoing treatment or rehabilitation. A strong legal claim often depends on documenting exactly what went wrong and when, and how that mistake affected the patient’s physical function.

Misdiagnosis

Misdiagnosis occurs when a healthcare provider incorrectly identifies a condition or fails to recognize a serious illness. This error can delay appropriate treatment, worsen the patient’s condition, or even result in treatment for an illness that doesn’t exist. In medical malpractice claims, misdiagnosis must be linked directly to harm. For example, if a cancer diagnosis was missed until it had advanced to a late stage, we may need to show that earlier detection would have significantly changed the outcome.

We often rely on medical timelines and opinions from qualified medical professionals to compare what should have happened with what actually did.

Medication Error

A medication error involves a mistake in prescribing, dispensing, or administering a drug. This could mean a doctor prescribes a medication that interacts negatively with a patient’s other drugs, a pharmacy dispenses the wrong dosage, or hospital staff delivers the drug incorrectly. These errors can lead to harmful reactions, hospitalization, and even permanent health changes.

We examine prescription records, pharmacy logs, and witness statements to determine where the error occurred. Medication error claims often involve multiple parties, including doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, so it’s important to assess how each step in the process contributed to the outcome.

Long-Term Disability

Long-term disability refers to a lasting impairment that limits a person’s ability to work or perform daily activities. In a medical malpractice context, this can result from surgical mistakes, untreated infections, birth injuries, or harmful medication reactions. These conditions may require extensive rehabilitation, home care, and adaptive equipment.

Proving the impact of long-term disability typically involves not only medical documentation but also evidence of lost income and vocational limitations. We work closely with medical professionals and employment specialists to estimate how the injury affects future earnings and independence.

Lost Earning Capacity

Lost earning capacity refers to the reduction in a person’s ability to earn income in the future due to a permanent or long-term injury. It’s different from current lost wages because it deals with how an injury will limit future work opportunities, not just time missed. In Simi Valley medical malpractice cases, this often applies when someone can no longer perform their previous job due to physical or cognitive impairments caused by medical mistakes.

To support these claims, we often include evaluations from vocational specialists who can explain how the injury affects career prospects. These assessments help determine how much income a person may lose over time and form a critical part of damage calculations in a malpractice lawsuit.

If you or a loved one has experienced a serious medical error, you don’t need to go through it alone. Our team at Goldberg Injury Lawyers is committed to helping individuals in Simi Valley understand their legal options and take steps toward recovery. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation with our Simi Valley, CA medical malpractice lawyer.

Finding Help After You Can’t Work

Recovering from the effects of medical malpractice can be difficult, but you don’t have to face it alone. We are committed to helping you explore all available options to secure the compensation you deserve. Our calls are answered 24/7. If you or a loved one can’t work due to medical malpractice, contact our Simi Valley medical malpractice lawyer from Goldberg Injury Lawyers today, and let’s discuss how we can help you take the next steps.